Kumiko Sakamoto
Born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Kumiko Sakamoto is a devoted performer, chamber musician and pedagogue, and has pursued a rich career as a violinist, vocalist and advocate. Kumiko is an award-winning solo violinist and has performed across France, Italy, and Poland, including performances at La Fenice, in Venice, and St. Sulpice church, in Paris. Her debut album, featuring the first recordings of the works of composer Gino Gorini, was released under the Tactus (Naxos) label in 2015. As a founding member of the Thalea String Quartet, Kumiko has performed across North America, Europe and China, including performances at Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, the John F. Kennedy Center and Massey Hall. As violinist and vocalist for the multi-instrumental duo Colour of Anyhow, Kumiko explores her passion for story-telling and musical exploration through genre-defying performances. As an educator, Kumiko is committed to fostering creativity, health and well-being amongst musicians of all ages. She has facilitated strings programs for students in underserved communities in San Francisco, while maintaining an active private studio for beginner, advanced and adult students. Kumiko currently coaches chamber music at the University of Maryland and is a Teaching Artist with Washington Performing Arts. Kumiko began her studies with Michael and William van der Sloot in Medicine Hat and Calgary. She received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the San Francisco Conservatory with minors in Vocal Performance and has held residency positions with the Thalea String Quartet at the San Francisco Conservatory, the University of Texas, and the Queen Elizabeth Music Chapel. She is currently completing her doctoral degree at the University of Maryland.